Will Sunderland deliver on their dreams?

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Roy Keane’s hugely impressive start as Sunderland manager has lifted aspirations among their fans but nobody expected the prediction that the club’s new shirt sponsor delivered this week.

“I see Sunderland as Premier League champions and Champions League winners,” announced John Boyle, the founder of the Irish bookmaker Boylesports, as he agreed a four-year deal with a club four days after it reached the top of the Championship.

Boyle’s grand vision prompted a splutter of nervous laughter from Niall Quinn, the club chairman, but perhaps there is credence to his claim.